Wrigley Science Institute executive director receives prestigious food technology career award

Dr. Gilbert Leveille receives 2008 Nicholas Appert Award from Institute of Food Technologists

CHICAGO, July 21, 2008 – Gilbert A. Leveille, PhD, executive director of the Wrigley Science Institute (WSI) has been selected as the 2008 recipient of the prestigious Institute of Food Technologists' Nicholas Appert Award, one of the highest honors in food science and technology. Dr. Leveille received this lifetime achievement award at the 2008 IFT Annual Meeting and Food Expo on June 29, 2008 and joined an esteemed panel of Nicholas Appert Award recipients that has spanned 65 years.

"This award honors IFT members for preeminence in and contributions to the field of food science and technology. We're pleased to present this award to Gilbert Leveille for his dedication and accomplishments in advancing the food industry," commented IFT President John Floros.

Throughout his career, Dr. Leveille has been at the helm of research related to health, nutrition and food science. He has worked tirelessly within the academic and private sectors to make major strides in achieving his career-long focus -- to address nutritional needs through improved food technology. In addition, Dr. Leveille has made an impact on public health serving on more than 30 academic, government and National Academy of Sciences committees as an advocate of sound science as the basis for public policy.

Dr. Leveille also has the distinction of being the only scientist to serve as the president of both the Institute of Food Technologists and American Society for Nutrition -- the premier organizations in food technology and nutrition (respectively).

In 2005, Dr. Leveille was appointed the Executive Director of the Wrigley Science Institute. He has become instrumental in the advancement and communication of scientific research on the benefits of chewing gum. Currently, Dr. Leveille and a global advisory panel of highly respected, independent experts help guide the research exploring how chewing gum can help reduce situational stress; manage weight; increase focus, alertness and concentration; and improve oral health.

"We are proud to have Gil as the leader of the Wrigley Science Institute," said Rob Peterson, Chief Innovation Officer for the Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company. "His insight and expertise in nutrition, food science and technology has been instrumental in building the science base for the awareness and understanding of the benefits of chewing gum."